Newcastle United lost both their opening two matches of the season, but are now top of the Championship.
Newcastle United midfielder Jack Colback has told The Chronicle that their tough start to life in Championship showed them that hard work is what will see them through this season.
The Magpies endured an unimaginable start, losing to Fulham on the opening night which was followed up by a home defeat to Huddersfield. The two losses made some doubt whether Newcastle were fit for purpose in the Championship, but since then they have been the best team in the division, and Colback feels those two results actually prepared them well for the rest of the campaign.
Newcastle United’s Jack Colback applauds fans after the match
“The start to the season gave everyone a wake-up call – the two defeats – and showed everyone at the club we can’t just turn up and expect to win the game, you’ve got to work hard,” Colback told The Chronicle.
“And if we do turn up and work hard then the quality of this team means we’re always going to score goals.”
The reality check Newcastle got in the opening two games of the season has arguably made them the team they are now. Rafael Benitez’s side are now the ones to beat, with only Wolves getting the better of the Magpies since the Huddersfield defeat.
Rotherham United’s Joe Newell (L) in action with Newcastle United’s Jack Colback
Newcastle have now won their last five games, with their lead at the top extended to three points thanks to their 3-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday.
The Magpies know exactly what the Championship is about, and are now bullying their opponents and showing they are the heavyweights of the division.
Derby County’s Jason Shackell and Newcastle United’s Jack Colback in action
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